Ko na mauri (Hello).

It gives me a great pleasure to have this opportunity to speak on behalf of the people and the Government of Japan in the official handing over ceremony of the seawater desalination plant for the people of the Island of Banaba. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank you all for the warm welcome and your generous hospitality extended to me this morning. This is my first visit to Kiribati and I had been looking forward to this moment.

Water is a basic need. I am deeply touched by your patience all along despite very limited water. I believe that this donation from Japanese people and the Government will ensure that the people of Banaba will be able to obtain a reliable water supply with adequate quality even during the drought. I also believe that the four days of training given by the Technical Assistant from Japan has greatly empowered the capability of the engineers in Kiribati to carry out regular maintenance so that the people in Banaba will be able to continue getting their fresh water supply in the future.

The implementation of this project was funded under Government of Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects scheme. This scheme, more commonly known as the GGP programme, is designed for such projects that will improve the living standard of people by providing basic necessities and better opportunities. The principle objective of this scheme is in line with Japan’s Official Development Assistance policy of promoting development at the grassroots level mainly in the areas of water supply, basic education, health and rural infrastructure. This GGP programme enables Japan to respond quickly and effectively in times of need.

Finally, I am confident that this assistance will serve to further strengthen the mutual relations and friendship between the governments and people of Japan and the Republic of Kiribati. With these few words, I officially hand over the new plant to Banaba Island Council.

Kam bati n rabwa (Thank you).